Closed doors, I thought, were typically meant to stay closed. And yes, some closed doors are a blessing for a lifetime, keeping us from trouble or stumbling, but sometimes it's just about timing. I first heard about the World Race when I went on a mission trip with my youth group my junior year. AIMs had led our trip, and I got to hear about the amazing things God is doing through this missions organization. I had a hunger for more, and I knew in my heart that I wanted to continue to serve the nations.

However, I had some roadblocks. Most were put up by me... honestly. What was the right time, the right season? I made excuses at first and valid reasons not to go on the World Race, but a lot of it stemmed from disqualifying myself. I have struggled with my mental health since high school, and I thought that I wasn't good enough, stable enough, or even a strong Christian because of those battles. Which one—is a complete lie from the Enemy himself.

I was coming up on graduating college when I went through probably the lowest season of my life. I had so much head knowledge of God and just how much He loves me, but I couldn't fully believe it in my heart for myself. After some time, I saw how shame could not hold me back, and even though I wasn't qualified, God will equip me. So, I applied. I thought it was the right time. I thought this door was finally opened. I had my interview, and I finally got a callback, only to hear that it was not the right time, but maybe another time when I am in a better spot. I agreed, but this was a hard door in the face.

Five years later, at 28 years old, this door finally opened. This was a dream that I thought I ran out of time for, but when you least expect it, God moves. God has been molding and guiding me all of these years to prepare me for something more—something greater than myself. I can't wait to tell my story of how God is continuously walking with me through each season, and when all hope was lost, He stood by my side. Not all closed doors stay closed.